Biodiversity in this context refers to the rich variety of life in the city. In the past, concern for biodiversity has primarily been focused on non-urban areas, but that view is changing. More people are living in urban regions than in rural areas and the pressure these regions are placing on natural systems is increasing.

The Greater Toronto Area recently surpassed a population of six million people. A rapidly urbanizing world means urban regions must become more sustainable and resilient for all species that inhabit them.

"When biodiversity considerations are integrated into all aspects of city-building, such as land use planning, urban design, transportation, parks and natural heritage management, energy production, waste management and public health, we will begin to design truly sustainable cities," said Jennifer Keesmaat, Chief Planner.

This roundtable brings together a variety of perspectives to talk about shared issues and discuss potential long-term solutions. Panelists include:

The format of the roundtable involves each panellist making a six-minute presentation, followed by a discussion moderated by the Chief Planner.

Members of the public interested in attending the roundtable event in person are asked to "RSVP" by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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Social media users can monitor the conversation on Twitter by following @CityPlanTO and by searching #CProundtable.

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. In 2017, Toronto will honour Canada's 150th birthday with "TO Canada with Love," a year-long program of celebrations, commemorations and exhibitions. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visit http://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/TorontoComms and on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/cityofto.